CRAAP Analysis: Accuracy This tutorial looks at the issue of accuracy.

CRAAP Analysis: Accuracy Determine: Is the information provided accurate? When evaluating information for accuracy, you must determine if the information is free from errors and accurate. Sounds easy, but if you are not knowledgeable about topic, what can you look for to help ensure you have found accurate information? Accuracy

Sources Books Articles Websites, Wikis, Blogs These elements that help you determine accuracy may sound similar to the those used to determine authority. In fact, authority and accuracy are closely related. For books, usually an author, editor, and the publisher strive to provide error-free information. However, the information can be biased, which is issue that we’ll address in a later tutorial. Authors of articles often submit their manuscripts to a group of peers or fellow experts who review the article for accuracy and other important elements. The is referred as the peer-review process. This helps ensure the accuracy and reliability of the information. Websites, Wikis, and blogs can run the gamut of providing accurate information to providing information that is completely false, full of errors, and even parody. Take care when locating and using information via the WWW. Accuracy

The is a portion of the article used in the previous tutorial on Authority. It is written by Dr. Beale, the psychiatrist and pipe enthusiast. Is the information in the statement that is circled accurate? How do you know? Has the author provided us with any references to data that supports this? No, this article has no cited references. We do not know where to find proof of these assertions. Does the information sound reasonable to you? Accuracy

Dr. Campling, the medical oncologist, suggests something completely different. In addition she provides a reference to recent research that backs up her statements. Accuracy

She provides the citations to the readers at the end of her article She provides the citations to the readers at the end of her article. This is a sign of quality in terms of accuracy. The author is providing the reader a chance to verify the information, and it shows the reader that they have taken the time to provide accurate information based upon research findings. Although Dr. Campling is an expert on cancer, her references to these research findings increases the accuracy of the information she provides. Accuracy

Accuracy Clues Citations/references provided? Sound reasonable? Spelling, grammar, or other errors? The questions to ask yourself to help determine the accuracy of an information resource are-- Where does the author obtain his or her information? Are theses sources listed? Does the information sound reasonable? Are there spelling, grammar, or other errors? Accuracy